Describing a situation, system, or environment where men, or those perceived as masculine, hold a position of superior privilege, power, or advantage over women, or those perceived as feminine. This disparity can manifest in various forms, including, but not limited to, economic opportunities, political representation, social expectations, and access to resources. The term highlights systemic biases and inequalities that benefit men at the expense of women, often unintentionally perpetuating patriarchal structures. It implies a comparative imbalance rather than absolute disadvantage; women may still experience success but may face additional hurdles or barriers compared to their male counterparts.
Man-advantaged meaning with examples
- In the tech industry, a history of man-advantaged hiring practices has led to a significant gender imbalance, with men often favored for leadership roles and higher-paying positions. This disparity not only limits opportunities for women but also skews innovation by creating a homogenous work environment.
- Research suggests that societal expectations often create a man-advantaged environment in education, where teachers may unconsciously give more attention or resources to male students, impacting girls' self-esteem and performance in certain subjects, perpetuating inequalities.
- The political landscape in many countries demonstrates a man-advantaged system where men hold a disproportionate number of elected positions. This imbalance often results in policies and legislation that do not adequately address the needs and concerns of women.
- Financial institutions have been accused of operating a man-advantaged system, with studies showing men are more likely to get business loans. This imbalance can hinder women entrepreneurs' ability to start and scale businesses, limiting economic growth.
- The legal system sometimes shows a man-advantaged leaning, with certain laws or judgments appearing to favor men in areas such as custody battles or sentencing for comparable crimes. This bias often undermines the concept of equal justice.